Assistant Field Operations Manager – Railroad

Qualdoc•Kansas City, MO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Field Operations Manager helps lead railroad field crews and emergency response activities. The role combines field leadership, project coordination, safety oversight, and hands-on support for derailments, rerailing, specialty lifting, railcar work, and track maintenance. The position supports supervisors and crews across multiple job sites and requires making decisions under pressure in demanding field environments. The role requires frequent overnight travel, availability for on-call assignments, and the ability to report within one hour when called. Work takes place outdoors in varying weather and demanding railroad environments, with hands-on field activity around railroad equipment. Extended hours, weekends, and holidays may be required as operational needs dictate.

Requirements

Previous experience leading or supervising field-based teams.
Working knowledge of DOT and FRA regulations.
Experience operating heavy equipment, including cranes, trucks, and excavators.
Ability to understand and use crane load charts and rigging requirements.
Strong communication and leadership skills, including the ability to coach and influence others.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn operational software.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
Ability to complete required safety training and certification programs.
Frequent overnight travel is required.
Must be available for on-call assignments and able to report within one hour when called.
Must be willing to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Experience in railroad, heavy equipment, construction, or related field operations.
CDL Class A or B.

Responsibilities

Support supervisors and field crews across multiple assignments.
Coordinate daily work, manpower, equipment, schedules, and project priorities.
Monitor job progress, productivity, quality, safety, and costs.
Provide hands-on direction, coaching, and problem-solving in the field.
Respond to emergency railroad service calls when needed.
Visit job sites regularly to identify safety concerns, operational risks, and quality issues.
Communicate with customers, field partners, and regulatory personnel.
Help recruit, train, coach, and evaluate employees.
Assist with workforce planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
Maintain accurate records for payroll, labor hours, equipment usage, and projects.
Track equipment condition and coordinate necessary maintenance, repairs, or replacement.
Support customer relationships and participate in industry events and professional activities.
Ensure field operations comply with DOT and FRA regulations and applicable safety requirements.